Heavy Rock Force AUDREY HORNE Reveal Title Track "Achilles"

Norwegian hard rock force AUDREY HORNE unleashes a hard-hitting new single with "Achilles," the title track of the band's upcoming 8th studio album, out this Friday, September 4, 2026 via Napalm Records! Roaring guitars meet impactful rhythms, all topped with powerfully captivating vocals. The band showcases the more progressive side of its sound on this ambitious single, arriving with a lyric video, and the strong sonic contrasts support the lyrics. Following the release of Achilles, AUDREY HORNE are set to head out on a European headline tour next month.
 
AUDREY HORNE on "Achilles":
"'Achilles' is a song about the 'us vs. them' situation in today's increasingly polarized world. It is also the title track from our new album and shows a bit more progressive side of the band. When we started recording the album, this song stood out immediately as a perfect opening track, and it has an energetic drive that will fit us perfectly on stage as well. We hope you guys like it as much as we do. Peace and love, AUDREY HORNE."
  
Watch the Lyric Video for "Achilles" Below:

Pre-Order Your Copy of Achilles NOW.

AUDREY HORNE's latest studio albums Blackout (2018) and Devil’s Bell (2022) received critical praise internationally, and the band was even awarded a Spellemannprisen (Norwegian equivalent to a Grammy) for their 2005 debut album. With previous international tours both as headliners and together with bands such as Papa Roach and Backyard Babies, as well as support slots for AC/DC and Mötley Crüe, AUDREY HORNE are one of Norway's most interesting rock exports. 
 
The new album features 11 multi-faceted tracks, ranging from high-energy, heavy rock pieces to more melodic and progressive songs, leaving no questions about the songwriting capabilities of this five-piece, which consists of vocalist Toschie, guitarists Ice Dale (Enslaved) and Thomas Tofthagen, bassist Espen Lien and drummer Kjetil Greve.
 
Following the hard-hitting title track "Achilles," more hit material is delivered through songs like "God Damn Beautiful"; this groovy Thin Lizzy-inspired track brings bass player Espen Lien to center stage on lead vocals. The band stays true to its sound on the high-energy rock 'n' roll number "Insanity" that features a catchy chorus and twin guitars — and a gripping storyline inspired by the classic Iron Maiden tune "Hallowed Be Thy Name!" Closing track "New Star Falling" wraps the album up beautifully, showcasing the melodic side of AUDREY HORNE's sound.

With Achilles, AUDREY HORNE return with an atmospheric heavy rock album that combines classic '70s and '80s influences with lyrical themes spanning escapism to commentary on the instability of the world we live in. A perfect fit for both rock radio and live stages!

AUDREY HORNE LIVE 2026:
09/03 — Oslo, NO — John Dee
09/04 — Porsgrunn, NO — RIP
09/05 — Hamar, NO — Festiviteten
09/19 — Trondheim, NO — Verkstedhallen
10/08 — Cologne, DE — Gebäude 9
10/09 — Essen, DE — Turock
10/10 — Münster, DE — Sputnik Café
10/11 — Hamburg, DE — Bahnhof Pauli
10/13 — Leiden, NL — Nobel
10/14 — Eindhoven, NL — Effenaar
10/15 — Kortrijk, BE — CVC Club
10/16 — Paris, FR — Nouveau Casino
10/17 — Grenoble, FR — L’Austra Rocks
10/18 — Zurich, CH — Plaza
10/20 — Munich, DE — Backstage Halle
10/21 — Bamberg, DE — Live Club
10/22 — Frankfurt, DE — Das Bett
10/23 — Dresden, DE — Puschkin Club
10/24 — Berlin, DE — Hole 44
12/04 — Kopervik, NO — Ovenpå
12/05 — Bergen, NO — USF Verftet

AUDREY HORNE ARE:
Toschie — Vocals
Arve "Ice Dale" Isdal — Guitar
Thomas Tofthagen — Guitar
Espen Lien —  Drums
Kjetil Greve —  Bass

METAL ICON KAI HANSEN RELEASES NEW SINGLE "WAIT AND SEE"

With "Wait And See," Kai Hansen releases the third single from his upcoming solo album Born With A Hammer. Pre-order it here.

After the speed, freedom and rock 'n' roll spirit of "Welcome To Life," the new track turns towards the heavier side of the album and immediately feels darker, tighter and more intense.
 
At its core, "Wait And See" is driven by sharp riffs and a rhythm that keeps pressing forward, but there is also a subtle electronic pulse running underneath it. That slight electronic edge gives the song a restless, modern feel without taking away any of its weight. When the chorus opens up, the track finds the unmistakable mix of power, melody and bite that has always made Hansen's songwriting so distinctive.
 
What stands out most is how alive the song feels. Hansen is not trying to recreate an earlier era or to prove that he can still play this kind of music. The riffs, the small electronic details. and the directness of the performance all sound instinctive. The point is not simply that he can still make music this forceful; it is that he clearly still wants to.
 
That balance gives “Wait And See” its own character. It is one of the harder and more forceful songs on Born With A Hammer, but the electronic touches, changing textures and strong sense of melody keep it from ever feeling one-dimensional.

The release is accompanied by a new video built from footage captured during a trip to Slovakia. Away from the usual stage setting, it shows Hansen driving a Mustang, traveling through the country and spending time in the studio, offering a rare, more personal glimpse of the person behind the music.

Born With A Hammer was produced by Eike Freese, Kai Hansen and Alexander Dietz. The album was recorded with Eike Freese on guitar, Heaven Shall Burn’s Alexander Dietz on bass, Carcass drummer Dan Wilding, and Induction guitarist Tim Hansen.

Across 10 songs, Born With A Hammer brings together powerful heavy metal, punk attitude, hard rock drive and strong melodies. Following "Feeding The Beast" and "Welcome To Life," "Wait And See" makes it clear that the album does not follow one fixed direction, while still sounding unmistakably like Kai Hansen throughout.
 
Following the worldwide success of Helloween’s recent reunion era and its major international tours, Born With A Hammer sees Kai Hansen return his focus to his own musical world. His history is naturally present in "Wait And See," but it never weighs the song down. This is not a metal icon looking backwards; it is Kai Hansen sounding fully engaged with what comes next.

ABOUT KAI HANSEN:
Kai Hansen is one of modern heavy metal’s most influential creative forces. As co-founder of Helloween and founder of Gamma Ray, he shaped the sound and spirit of power metal and continues to influence artists and fans worldwide. His work with Helloween has brought him back to the biggest stages around the globe, while Born With A Hammer reveals another side of his creative drive — personal, direct and fully charged.

FM MANAGEMENT ACQUIRES OWNERSHIP STAKE IN NATIONAL ACTS VIP

FM Music Management is proud to announce that it has acquired an ownership stake in National Acts VIP, establishing a strategic partnership focused on expanding the company’s presence throughout the music, entertainment and live-event industries.

National Acts VIP specializes in creating and managing premium VIP experiences that connect artists with their fans through exclusive opportunities, including meet-and-greets, VIP packages, special experiences and other artist-driven programs.

Through the new partnership, FM Music Management will utilize its extensive network of artists, managers, agents, promoters, venues and other entertainment-industry relationships to introduce new opportunities and help expand the National Acts VIP platform.

"This partnership is a natural extension of what we already do throughout the entertainment industry,” said Frank Mastalerz of FM Music Management. "National Acts VIP has built a strong platform that creates additional value for artists while giving fans experiences they simply cannot get with a standard concert ticket. We believe there is a tremendous opportunity to grow the company, expand its artist and industry relationships, and build National Acts VIP into an even stronger brand."

"We are beyond excited to officially launch this strategic partnership with FM Music Management. Frank Mastalerz and his team have been trusted collaborators of National Acts since 2022, and we’ve seen firsthand the level of experience, vision, and dedication they bring to every artist and project. This is a meaningful next step for both companies, and we’re energized by what we can accomplish together as we continue creating bigger opportunities and delivering even more value for our clients," says TJ Chopelas, Founder, National Acts

As part of the partnership, FM Music Management will actively promote National Acts VIP within its network and under the broader FM umbrella while developing new artist, management, promoter, venue and entertainment-industry relationships for the company.

The partnership also brings together two complementary areas of the music business: artist development and representation through FM Music Management and premium fan experiences through National Acts VIP.

For National Acts VIP, the addition of FM Music Management as an ownership partner provides access to an established entertainment-industry network and another avenue for developing long-term artist and client relationships.

For FM Music Management, the investment further expands the company's growing portfolio of music and entertainment businesses while creating additional opportunities and revenue channels for artists and industry partners.

Both companies will continue operating with a shared focus on developing meaningful artist opportunities, creating memorable fan experiences and expanding the National Acts VIP platform nationally.

ABOUT FM MUSIC MANAGEMENT:
FM Music Management is a full-service artist management and entertainment company representing artists across multiple areas of the music industry. Through its expanding family of entertainment businesses and strategic partnerships, FM continues to develop opportunities connecting artists, live entertainment, merchandise, branding and other music-related ventures. 

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

ABOUT NATIONAL ACTS VIP:
National Acts VIP provides customized VIP and fan-experience programs for artists and entertainment partners, creating premium opportunities designed to strengthen the connection between artists and their fans while generating additional value and revenue surrounding live events.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

unpeople Unveil Video for Anthemic Single "blueprints"

After a weekend of tearing up Reading & Leeds Festivals, unpeople today announce their stunning, anthemic new single "blueprints," taken from their forthcoming debut album we are unpeople, out October 9 on SharpTone Records.

A lighter touch that takes no prisoners when it comes to anthemic ambition, "blueprints" reveals another side of unpeople. Built around skyscraping four-part harmonies and soaring melodies, the track makes a compelling case for a band ready for the world's biggest stages.

Listen here and watch the official video below.

"The subject matter of this song is not an easy one to get into, personally," singer and guitarist Jake Crawford explains. "It's broadly about propping up people who have behaviours that are clearly not good for them or the people around them. People who only want what is best for them. Take from that what you will. Luke wrote the lion's share of the song and presented it to us with the chorus lyrics and melody already in place. I loved it so much we kept it almost exactly as it was and I just elaborated on the overall feeling of the tune with the verses."

A seamless ability to connect across boundaries and conjure communal spirit, sits at the very heart of the band's recently-announced debut album we are unpeople. Built upon massive choruses, four-part vocal harmonies and unabated heaviness, it captures a band whose ambition is matched by their belief in the power of music to unite people.

Comprised of Jake Crawford, Luke Caley, Em Lodge, and Richard Rayner, unpeople have quickly established themselves as one of the UK's most exciting new alternative bands, earning themselves a reputation for creating music that feels equally at home on the biggest rock stages and the heaviest festival bills - having fittingly been described as the lightest band at Bloodstock, and the heaviest band at Kendal Calling — finding themselves equally at home in both settings.

With Kerrang! hailing them as "one of alternative music's best new bands," live, they've opened for Metallica in Vienna, shared bills with Smashing Pumpkins and Coheed & Cambria and drawn huge crowds at 2000trees.

With support tours incoming with both Royal Blood and Don Broco, the band are ready to take things to the next level. Across January 2027, unpeople will take on their biggest headline tour to date across the UK — with most dates selling out almost instantly. The tour will end on January 28, with a truly special night at London's Electric Ballroom, matching the ambition of a band on the cusp of truly breaking through. Tickets here.

we are unpeople.
you are unpeople.
we are all unpeople.

Photo Credit: Richard Mukuze

UNPEOPLE LIVE:
1/18 — Dublin, IE — Grand Social
1/19 — Belfast, UK — Voodoo
1/21 — Bristol, UK — The Fleece — SOLD OUT
1/22 — Leeds, UK — The Key Club — SOLD OUT
1/23 — Manchester, UK — Rebellion — SOLD OUT
1/25 — Glasgow, UK — King Tut's — SOLD OUT
1/26 — Birmingham, UK — O2 Institute 2 — SOLD OUT
1/27 — Nottingham, UK — The Bodega — SOLD OUT
1/28 — London, UK — Electric Ballroom

FESTIVAL APPEARANCES:
9/3 — Torquay, UK — Burn It Down Festival

SUPPORTING DON BROCO:
9/27 — Watford, UK — Colosseum
9/28 — Lincoln, UK — Engine Shed
9/29 — Sheffield, UK — Octagon
10/1 — Edinburgh, UK — Corn Exchange
10/2 — Manchester, UK — Academy
10/3 — Liverpool, UK — Guild of Students
10/4 — Newcastle, UK — City Hall
10/6 — Cambridge, UK — Corn Exchange
10/7 — Birmingham, UK — O2 Academy
10/8 — Portsmouth, UK — Guildhall
10/10 — Norwich, UK — UEA
10/11 — Folkestone, UK — Leas Cliff Hall
10/12 — London, UK — Here at Outernet
10/14 — Bristol, UK — The Prospect Building

SUPPORTING ROYAL BLOOD:
11/24 — Bristol, UK — The Prospect Building
11/25 — Newcastle, UK — O2 City Hall
11/27 — Manchester, UK — O2 Apollo
11/28 — Glasgow, UK — Barrowland
11/29 — Glasgow, UK — Barrowland
12/2 — Wolverhampton, UK — The Civic At The Hall
12/3 — London, UK — Olympia

STARSET RETURN WITH VIDEO FOR RECENTLY RELEASED NEW SINGLE "p a r a d 0 x 1 c"

TOURING WITH BREAKING BENJAMIN, CHEVELLE, + KAMI KEHOE THIS FALL

STARSET, who've existed at the intersection of music and sci fi for most of their billon-streaming career, kick off their newest era with the new single "p a r a d 0 x 1 c."

 This is STARSET at their most seductive — dark, synth-driven alt rock with a hypnotic pulse.

Known for their interstellar, world-building atmospheres, Starset bridge the gap between cinematic EDM and guitar-forward, textured rock. Here, genres collide, with massive, emotionally-charged, sci-fi-bred hooks and an explosion of riffs. Ultimately, it's a neon-soaked, synth-infused track that feels like a transmission from the future. "p a r a d 0 x 1 c" stands as a world of its own — layered and encapsulating, and a harbinger of what's to come. 

Watch the accompanying video Below:

Since emerging in 2013, Columbus, Ohio's STARSET have become one of modern rock's most distinctive and commercially successful acts, amassing nearly 5 billion global streams, including more than 1.7 billion on Spotify alone, earning RIAA Platinum and Gold certifications, scoring multiple Billboard Mainstream Rock Top 10 hits, and building a devoted global fanbase through cinematic storytelling and immersive live productions that blur the line between concert and science-fiction experience.

Lauded by Forbes as having "one of the most firmly established brands of any modern rock band," STARSET are creating a true multimedia empire with music at its core. STARSET are one of the most successful and visually and conceptually ambitious acts in rock music. The band's impact is best captured in its massive numbers: STARSET have accumulated billions of streams worldwide. Their breakout hit "My Demons" has become a rock staple, earning multi-platinum certifications and dominating alternative and active rock charts. Meanwhile, their cinematic, sci-fi–driven live shows sell out venues across North America, Europe, and beyond — due to the passionate vigor with which their fanbase follows the band.

Continuing to push creative boundaries both on and off the stage, STARSET will bring their transportive live production to cities across North America throughout September and October.

STARSET ON TOUR:
WITH BREAKING BENJAMIN, CHEVELLE, + KAMI KEHOE:
9/02 — Camden, NJ — Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
9/03 — Bridgeport, CT — Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater
9/05 — Wantagh, NY — Northwell at Jones Beach Theater
9/06 — Holmdel, NJ — PNC Bank Arts Center
9/09 — Toronto, ON — RBC Amphitheatre
9/10 — Darien Center, NY — Six Flags Darien Lake Amphitheater
9/12 — Allegan, MI — Allegan County Fairgrounds
9/13 — Clarkston, MI — Pine Knob Music Theatre
9/15 — Burgettstown, PA — The Pavilion at Star Lake
9/16 — Noblesville, IN — Ruoff Music Center
9/17 — Louisville, KY — Louder Than Life Festival
9/18 — Tinley Park, IL — Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
9/20 — Council Bluffs, IA — Mid-America Center
9/22 — Shakopee, MN — Mystic Lake Amphitheater
9/24 — Riverside, MO — Morton Amphitheater
9/25 — St. Louis, MO — Hollywood Casino Amphitheater
9/28 — Denver, CO — Ball Arena
9/30 — West Valley City, UT — Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
10/01 — Sacramento, CA — Aftershock Festival
10/02 — Las Vegas, NV — Michelob ULTRA Arena
10/03 — Anaheim, CA — Honda Center
10/05 — Phoenix, AZ — Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
10/07 — Albuquerque, NM — First Financial Credit Union Amphitheater
10/10 — The Woodlands, TX — The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
10/12 — Fort Worth, TX — Dickies Arena
10/13 — Rogers, AR — Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion
10/16 — Tuscaloosa, AL — Mercedes-Benz Amphitheatre
10/17 — Alpharetta, GA — Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
10/19 — Tampa, FL — MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
10/20 — West Palm Beach, FL — iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
10/23 — Raleigh, NC — Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
10/24 — Bristow, VA — Jiffy Lube Live

BAD WOLVES HONOR DOLLY PARTON + RELEASE "JOLENE" COVER IN HER MEMORY

Dolly Parton was planning to contribute her signature vocals to Bad Wolves' heavy metal cover of "Jolene" before her sudden passing this week. On Monday, August 31, the band releases their version of the song in her memory, with proceeds going to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.

"Our singer is a big fan of Dolly and had posted a bunch of videos of her covering 'Jolene.' So, we decided to make a rock cover version for our next album," says Bad Wolves founder, drummer, and songwriter John Boecklin. "On hearing our version, our label CEO Dan Waite sent the finished record to Dolly's manager, Danny Nozell, with a request for Dolly to guest feature on our version. We heard back that Danny had played the track to Dolly, and that Dolly loved our version, and that Dolly was going to go into the studio and add her vocals very soon. We then sent over the stems for Dolly's studio engineers to work with. Like everyone, we were devastated by last week's news of Dolly's passing."

Danny Nozell, Dolly Parton's longtime manager, confirmed that she had been eager to record her vocals for the track before her passing, while explicitly clearing up recent online misinformation surrounding the tribute, stating. "Dolly was a champion of artists pushing musical boundaries. She listened to the Bad Wolves arrangement of 'Jolene' weeks ago, gave it her full blessing, and was incredibly excited to collaborate on it. Releasing this track on Monday as a tribute—with proceeds directly supporting her beloved Imagination Library—is exactly what Dolly and her team wanted."

"Jolene" is available now via Better Noise Music. Listen Below:

Don Burton, manager and husband of the late Dolores O’Riordan (The Cranberries), offered his perspective on the band's integrity. 

"When Dolores died, prior to recording with Bad Wolves on Zombie, Better Noise Music’s Allen Kovac and Dan Waite reached out say that with our blessing they would like to continue with their plans to release 'Zombie,' but wanted to donate the proceeds to Dolores' children. 

"As a parent, I was touched, and also very surprised when the label and band were true to their word and presented our kids (aged 12, 16, 20, 27 at the time) with hundreds of thousands of dollars. A very gracious gesture, which helped with their college costs, and we will always remember the band's kindness in honouring their pledge and Dolores' memory. 

"The similarities here with Dolly Parton loving Bad Wolves version of Jolene, and sadly passing before recording, is tragic, but once again the Bad Wolves have agreed to donate their proceeds to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and based on the 'Zombie' track record, this could provide a lot of books for young children around the world."

Boecklin continued: "We will honor Dolly's incredible legacy by donating proceeds from 'Jolene' to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. We know that we can contribute to Dolly's vision of giving access to books and improving literacy."

ABOUT BAD WOLVES:
BAD WOLVES continue to break all of the rules, merging mind-numbing riffs and rhythms with massive, stadium-size melodies. This uncanny fusion of finesse and fire has quietly cemented the Nashville-based band as a multi-platinum powerhouse. Founded by John Boecklin in 2018, the quartet show sno signs of stopping or slowing down, either. Thus far, they have garnered a 3x-Platinum single and two Gold singles in addition to scoring 6 No. 1 entries at radio and gathering billions of streams. Beyond acclaim from Billboard, Outburn, Loudwire, and more, the group has stood out as a presence versatile enough to collaborate with either Daughtry or Ice Nine Kills. Beyond touring with Papa Roach, Volbeat, Hollywood Undead, and more, they have sold out successive headline tours. Welcoming KILLBOY on the microphone in 2026, they blow the hinges off on their next era with the new single "Paint It Red" — with much more to come.

Shy, Low Share Video For "Purity Spiral"

PURITY SPIRAL OUT OCTOBER 16 VIA PELAGIC RECORDS  — PRE-ORDER

From Richmond, Virginia, SHY, LOW have a reputation as one of the most compelling voices within the modern instrumental underground. Their music speaks to fans of post-rock's emotional grandeur and post-metal's crushing intensity alike, while simultaneously appealing to listeners drawn to experimental, atmospheric, and cinematic forms of heavy music. The band's ability to merge these seemingly disparate qualities has resulted in a body of work that is immediately recognizable and continually evolving.

Their new album Purity Spiral, will be released on October 16th, 2026 via Pelagic Records. Today they unveil the second single (and title track), "Purity Spiral."

Watch the video below. Stream the track here.

About the track, the band explains "'Purity Spiral' is an exploration of the feedback loop of technological dependency, and the effect it has on our relationships with others and ourselves. The more we worship the golden idolatry of growth, the further from our humanity we seem to stray. Self-isolation is a contagion destroying the bonds between us all.” 

With the album Purity Spiral, SHY, LOW continue their trajectory of artistic expansion and their fascination with movement, tension, and transformation, embracing a sound that is meticulously crafted and noticeably heavier; with devastating results. Building vast emotional landscapes through dynamic contrasts, layered textures, and patient, cinematic evolution, SHY, LOW use immersive repetition and tectonic weight to build tension through evolving patterns. While often associated with post-rock and post-metal, their music reaches beyond the familiar boundaries of either genre, drawing equally from cinematic atmosphere, crushing heaviness, ambient minimalism, and the emotional sweep of modern instrumental composition.

Luminous melodies, driving heaviness, layered textures, and carefully controlled tension allows Purity Spiral to move effortlessly between fragile moments of introspection and towering passages of intensity. Whether constructing intricate layers of harmony or driving songs toward explosive climaxes, there is a deep understanding of pacing, atmosphere, and the power of restraint. Momentum is at the heart of this album, through intricate rhythmic detail, and explosive bursts of energy, drums become the anchor and catalyst, supporting the band's expansive arrangements while pushing them toward moments of cathartic release. 

What distinguishes SHY, LOW is their ability to balance enormity with restraint. Their music unfolds patiently, allowing tension to accumulate through layers of texture, melody, and dynamics. Moments of delicate clarity often coexist with overwhelming weight, creating a sense of organic motion. At the core of the band's sound lies an acute understanding of contrast. From shimmering, expansive passages to towering walls of distortion, the rhythm section provides both propulsion and atmosphere, becoming integral narrative voices that shape the emotion. 

There is a disciplined sense of purpose in their writing, an understanding that every note serves a larger arc. SHY, LOW thrives in the space between introspection and catharsis, where subtle details become as impactful as the heaviest climaxes, and listeners are taken on a journey that is as visceral as it is profound. 

SHY, LOW ARE:
Dylan Partridge — Drums
Gregg Peterson — Guitar
Drew Storcks — Bass
Zak Bryant — Guitar
Kai Zamora — Guitar 

BRYMIR Release Second Single, "Tempestbound," + Video!

Finnish melodic death metallers BRYMIR unleash the second track from their upcoming album, What We Leave Behind, coming October 2, 2026 via Napalm Records! "Tempestbound" surges forward with speedy riffs and a wuthering message. The new single wraps the overarching theme of the band’s darkest album to date in a cloak of mythology. No matter the belief system, the Gods are all the same — and none of them is worth dying for at the hands of moribund mankind. Constituting war as the death or progress, "Tempestbound" solidifies BRYMIR's epic plea for humanity.
 
BRYMIR about "Tempestbound":
“Speed and insanity! Mankind is supposed to be starbound, yet here we are fighting over the same old stupid stuff. Our progress has been immense, technological marvels created, yet we mostly seem to use these to just destroy each other and ourselves—just faster and more completely. Instead of reaching the stars, instead of being starbound, we remain ‘Tempestbound.’” 
 
Watch the Official Music Video for "Tempestbound" Below:

Helsinki-based BRYMIR make a strong case for melodic death metal with What We Leave Behind, coming October 2, 2026 via Napalm Records! In a darkening world full of existential dread, the Finnish band—singer Viktor Storm Gullichsen, guitarist Joona Björkroth, bassist Jarkko Niemi, and drummer Patrik Fält—takes a stand with their most sinister album yet. Again heavily influenced by their singer’s main job as a movie sound designer, BRYMIR create vast cinematic soundscapes around their sometimes bleak, sometimes hopeful, but always honest messages.
 
Strongly tied to current societal developments, BRYMIR deliver an equally raw and fantastical album. Their darkest output yet, the band’s fifth album hits especially hard—and leaves absolutely no open questions behind. As introspective as it is outspoken, What We Leave Behind is an epic plea for humanity.

BRYMIR about What We Leave Behind:
"Since our previous album, the world certainly hasn't gotten any lighter—and as art reflects life, our fifth album, What We Leave Behind, is the darkest creation we've made so far. Both musically as well as thematically… 'What We Leave Behind?' is the core question explored from many perspectives: from personal hopes, dreams, and fears to societal developments to dark sci-fi and existential despair. Join us on this dark emotional journey, at times violent, at times beautiful, and always honest in baring the soul of what is BRYMIR – no compromise, everything raw and real."

Get Your Copy Of What We Leave Behind NOW.

BRYMIR LIVE 2026:
Festivals:
9/4 — Hüttikon, CH — Meh Suff!
11/6 — Kempele, FI — ZRock Winter Fest

What We Leave Behind Tour 2026:
Special Guests: Horizon Ignited + Omnivortex
9/18 — Vantaa, FI — Skenesali
9/25 — Seinäjoki, FI — Rytmikorjaamo
9/26 — Oulu, FI — 45 Special
10/2 — Tampere, FI — Olympia
10/3 — Lahti, FI — VNUE
10/8 — Jyväskylä, FI — Lutakko
10/9 — Turku, FI — Apollo
10/16 — Kouvola, FI — House of Rock
10/17 — Kuopio, FI — Circus
10/24 — Vaasa, FI — Fanny
10/30 — Hämeenlinna, FI — Suisto
10/31 — Helsinki, FI — Korjaamo

BRYMIR ARE:
Viktor Storm Gullichsen — Vocals
Joona Björkroth — Guitars
Jarkko Niemi — Bass
Patrik Fält — Drums

Guitarist Eric Steckel Shares "Axe to Grind" Video

Internationally acclaimed blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter Eric Steckel has released the video for new single "Axe to Grind" from his new studio album Sandstorm out September 11 via OPEN/SPV Recordings. 

"I always had this idea, you know, in the back of my mind of doing a song with this title because it's just a great play on words and you guys know I love my distorted guitars," Steckel shares. "So there's kind of a triple meaning almost, you know, with this. And so this was a cool song to write, a really fun song to record. Hope you guys can relate to it and feel it." 

Watch the "Axe to Grind" video below.

Stream the single + pre-order the album here.

In an era where pedalboards, laptops, and samples have become commonplace, American blues rock/metal guitarist and singer Eric Steckel goes against the grain and harkens his listeners back to the days when great guitars were played loudly through great amps. Hailed by many as the top rising star of blues and rock, Steckel delivers a powerhouse performance that has left audiences in 30 countries (and counting) mesmerized. 

Steckel has toured worldwide, sharing the billing with Steve Vai, Gregg Allman, Johnny Winter, John Mayall, Ray Charles, Larry Carlton, Robben Ford, and others, and was voted into Total Guitar magazine's list of "The 100 Greatest Blues Guitarists of All Time" and was named one of "10 Future Blues Stars" by Guitar Player.

"My forthcoming new album, Sandstorm is the most fun I've had making a record in my career thus far," comments Steckel. "The incredible vibe in the studio brought forth tons of new and spontaneous material such as the title track 'Sandstorm,' which instantly became my favorite track on this album and a perfect representation of this body of work." 

All upcoming tour dates are here and below.

ERIC STECKEL LIVE:
9/10 — Dordrecht, Netherlands — Bibelot
9/13 — Raismes, France — Raismes Fest
9/16 — Haarlem, Netherlands — Patronaat
9/17 — Heerlen, Netherlands — Poppodium Nieuwe Nor
9/20 — Hamburg, Germany — Nochtspeicher
9/21 — Berlin, Germany — Mikropol
9/22 — Hannover, Germany — Lux Club Linden
9/23 — Frankfurt am Main, Germany — Das Bett
9/25 — Pratteln, Switzerland — Konzertfabrik Z7
9/26 — Mannheim, Germany — Guitar Summit
9/27 — Vienna, Austria — Chelsea
9/28 — Milan, Italy — Legend Club
9/29 — Munich, Germany — Backstage
10/2 — Edinburgh, Scotland — Sneaky Pete's
10/3 — Manchester, England — Gullivers
10/4 — Nottingham, England — Rough Trade Nottingham
10/5 — London, England — Colours Hoxton
10/6 — Dublin, Ireland — Whelan's
10/24 — Phoenix, Arizona — The Rhythm Room

FROZEN CROWN Release New Single "Who Wants to Burn in Heaven" + Video!

ITALIAN POWER METAL BAND FROZEN CROWN RELEASE THIRD SINGLE "WHO WANTS TO BURN IN HEAVEN" — WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO BELOW ! 

NEW, DARKER ALBUM, THE LEGEND OF THE SIX KINGS, RELEASES OCTOBER 2 VIA NAPALM RECORDS — PRE-ORDER NOW!

FROZEN CROWN determine the direction of their new narrative approach with their new single "Who Wants to Burn in Heaven."

"Who wants to burn in Heaven if you can rule forever down in Hell?," the choir-powered, groovy song exclaims, illustrating the Italian band's new-found darkness. A heavy metal riff turns into an epic melody, with a powerful vocal delivery by both Giada "Jade" Etro and Federico Mondelli following. The accompanying album, The Legend of the Six Kings, releases October 2 via Napalm Records.
 
Giada "Jade" Etro about "Who Wants to Burn in Heaven":
"'Who Wants To Burn In Heaven' is the natural follow-up to 'I Am The Tyrant,' one of our most popular and beloved songs, with its driving martial pace and the singalong emotional chorus. The song is a statement of uniqueness and freedom. Better to stand as a king among outsiders (the misunderstood, the unconventional, the beautifully imperfect) than to beg for a place among those who worship conformity and call it perfection. Their Heaven may look flawless from the outside, but it will punish and make you burn if you try to shine with your own light."

The legend starts: FROZEN CROWN head into their very own age of gold with their new album, The Legend of the Six Kings, coming October 2 via Napalm Records. Taking a more narrative approach than previous releases, their sixth album sends the Italian band on an epic quest. The ten brand-new heavy power metal tracks expand their dynamic repertoire into a slightly darker, but nevertheless illustrious, direction. With lead vocalist Giada "Jade" Etro changing her formerly cheerful approach to claim the sinister titular frozen crown, the band shows its true form with this straightforward punch of a record.

The Legend of the Six Kings has FROZEN CROWN take the throne deserving of their band name. A powerful work of rousing heavy power metal and massive vocal arrangements, the six-piece delivers a glorious performance filled with energetic melodies and catchy choruses. The Legend of the Six Kings matures the band's trademark sound and makes sure that these six kings and queens will remain what the title states: legends. The album is open for pre-order now. This sixth album depicts the strength of our six band members, and our personal idea of Power Metal infused in ten catchy tracks touching the most varied nuances of the genre, from raw and uncompromising Speed ​​Metal, to the sumptuous magniloquence of Symphonic Metal, to the occasional linear chaos of Melodic Death Metal, but always sounding as FROZEN CROWN as ever!"

Get Your Copy Of The Legend of the Six Kings NOW!

FROZEN CROWN LIVE 2026

NORTH AMERICA:
Supporting Kamelot, Special Guest: Visions of Atlantis:
8/28 — Orlando, FL — Hard Rock Live
8/29 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade (Heaven)
8/31 — Dallas, TX — The Studio at the Factory
9/02 — Phoenix, AZ — The Van Buren
9/03 — Las Vegas, NV — House of Blues
9/04 — Anaheim, CA — House of Blues
9/05 — San Francisco, CA — The Fillmore
9/07 — Vancouver, BC — Vogue Theatre
9/08 — Seattle, WA — Neptune
9/10 — Salt Lake City, UT — Rockwell at The Complex
9/11 — Denver, CO — Summit Music Hall
9/12 — Kansas City, MO — The Truman
9/14 — Minneapolis, MN — First Avenue
9/15 — Milwaukee, WI — The Rave
9/17 — St. Charles, IL — The Arcada Theatre
9/18 — Cleveland, OH — Globe Iron
9/19 — Toronto, ON — Phoenix Concert Theatre
9/20 — Montreal, QC — MTELUS
9/22 — Quebec City, QC — Theatre Capitole
9/24 — Glenside, PA — Keswick Theatre
9/25 — Worcester, MA — The Palladium
9/26 — New York, NY — Palladium Times Square
9/27 — Silver Spring, MD — The Fillmore Silver Spring

EUROPE:
Supporting Beast in Black, Special Guest: Sonata Arctica:
10/26 — London, UK — O2 Forum Kentish Town
10/27 — Brussels, BE — Ancienne Belgique
10/28 — Tilburg, NL — Poppodium 013
10/29 — Leipzig, DE — Haus Auensee Leipzig
10/31 — Vienna, AT — Gasometer
11/01 — Budapest, HU — Barba Negra
11/02 — Zlin, CZ — Sports Hall Datart
11/03 — Gliwice, PL — Prezero Arena
11/05 — Berlin, DE — Columbiahalle
11/06 — Hanover, DE — Swiss Life Hall
11/07 — Ludwigsburg, DE — MHP Arena
11/08 — Offenbach, DE — Stadthalle
11/09 — Paris, FR — L’Olympia
11/11 — Barcelona, ES — Razzmatazz 1
11/12 — Madrid, ES — Sala La Riviera
11/13 — Bilbao, ES — Santana 27
11/14 — Toulouse, FR — Le Bikini
11/15 — Lyon, FR — Le Transbordeur
11/17 — Zurich, CH — Komplex 457
11/18 — Milan, IT — Alcatraz
11/20 — Munich, DE — Zenith
11/21 — Luxembourg, LU — Rockhal
11/22 — Oberhausen, DE — Turbinenhalle
11/23 — Hamburg, DE — Inselpark
11/24 — Gothenburg, SE — Eriksbergshallen
11/25 — Stockholm, SE — Arenan Fryshuset

FROZEN CROWN ARE:
Giada "Jade" Etro — Lead and Backing Vocals
Federico Mondelli — Lead Guitar, Lead and Backing Vocals
Niso Tomasini — Drums
Francesco Zof — Bass, Backing Vocals 
Alessia Lanzone — Lead Guitar
Aleksandra Stamenkovic — Lead Guitar

PLAIINS Step on the Gas With "Cookie Jar"

British x German alt-punks PLAIINS invite us to tear the roof off with their hard-hitting new single "Cookie Jar."

Building on the massive momentum of over 3 million streams and rave reviews from Visions and Kerrang! (who famously dubbed them "cartoonishly gobby"), the track tackles the millennial grind — capturing the frustration of working endlessly only to realize that the promised reward of a secure, comfortable life is out of reach.

Drawing inspiration from Kid Kapichi, Bad Nerves, The Hives, IDLES, and PUP, the song blends a gritty British punk feel in the verses with a swaggering, Kid Kapichi-style groove in the pre-chorus. The chorus hits with full force—massive, anthemic, and built around PUP-inspired vocals, Hives-esque guitars, and roaring gang vocals, all capped off by a guitar solo with a clear nod to My Chemical Romance.

Listen to "Cookie Jar" Below:

Hot on the heels of their highly praised debut album Happy Faces (2025) and their recent teaser "Look Ma, I'm A Don," new single "Cookie Jar" kicks off an exciting new chapter for the band. PLAIINS are set to light up the festival circuit across Europe this summer, followed by a UK run in autumn and a major winter tour through Germany's top cities alongside Smile and Burn and The Pill. 

PLAIINS about the new single:
"'Cookie Jar' is written from a millennial perspective about growing up being promised a very specific version of adulthood: Work hard, go to university, get a good job and you'll be rewarded with financial security, a house and a holiday once a year. But the economic landscape changed, the goalposts moved, and yet our generation is still often blamed for being lazy or entitled. The song comes from the frustration of working 60 hours a week and still feeling like it's almost impossible to get ahead. The 'cookie jar' is the modest, normal life we were told hard work would guarantee us."

PLAIINS ARE:
Chris Reardon — Vocals, Guitars
Florian Kaninck — Guitars
Adrian Boog — Bass

New Podcast "Music Therapy With Producer Quinn" Invites Stories From Locals to Legends

The new music podcast "MUSIC THERAPY WITH PRODUCER QUINN" is set to debut today, August 26, on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

"Music Therapy With Producer Quinn" is a weekly show featuring locals to legends. Producer Quinn dives deep into musicians' pasts, presents, and futures through games, deep questions, and curiosity. 

The premiere features Royal Coda's Kurt Travis and Steffen Gotsch revealing the personal stories behind some of their most memorable songs and insight into the process (and un-process) of songwriting.

"I was, honestly, about to quit everything. I was going back to school…I had a good time, but like, I think it's over,” says Travis, on the dark moments before he joined Royal Coda. He teases inspiration for the next Royal Coda album, his sobriety, his "opposite of sobriety" moments with Dance Gavin Dance, and whom he’d like to collaborate with in the future. Elsewhere, Gotsch goes into detail about his writing process, coming into the band, and being the backbone of the low-end for Royal Coda.

"I wanted a space where musicians felt comfortable enough to share their past, present, and future. While I keep it light during the games, we talk about topics that truly matter to the artists and their fans," says Producer Quinn.

UPCOMING GUESTS:
  9/2 — KVDE
9/9 — PULSES

Legendary Hardcore Force WALLS OF JERICHO Unleash Incendiary New Single "Agency"

Legendary hardcore + metalcore force WALLS OF JERICHO are back with their long awaited new album System Error: Humanity dropping November 13 via Napalm Records. Following the triumphant release of their first single "The Ascent," praised by fans and critics for its "fierce breakdowns and demolishing riffs" (Metal Injection), today, WOJ unleashes the exceedingly ferocious follow up "Agency."

Like a bullet from a gun, "Agency" takes off at 100 miles an hour in explosive thrash excellence, before turning around and dropping you on your head with a tectonic breakdown. Iconic frontwoman Candace Buckingham gives a moving sermon of self actualization, galvanizing listeners to fight for their inalienable, human rights.

Frontwoman Candace Buckingham on "Agency":
"'Agency' is a song about freedom. The kind that lives within you, the kind no one can take away, and the kind you have to fight for every single day."

Watch the Lyric Video for "Agency" Below: 

Order Your Copy of System Error: Humanity HERE.

Clobbering listeners out of the gate with "True Til' Death," the band affirms the triumph of the comeback with rabid aggression: Iconic frontwoman Candace Buckingham immediately  commands listeners with her gargantuan growls. The discordant violence of tracks like "The Ascent" and "Untouchable," tap into something truly primal and kick you back a reading level  with their claustrophobic chord work, while more thrash driven tracks like "The Flame" and  "Agency" take off at 100 miles per hour, plowing through a plethora of protein packed riffage  and solos. Lyrically the band is stoking the flames of discontent, with tracks like "Agency," "Borrowed Ground," and "Last Judgement," delivering empowering messages of reclamation,  self determination, and human rights, encouraging listeners to fight for a better world. The  record also features a premier slew of guests including Lamb of God's Randy Blythe on "Broken Mouths Can't Speak," his beckoning howl joining Candace on a ferocious duel attack; and Guy Kozowyk of The Red Chord on "Humanity," propelling the groove laden pit starter  into cataclysmic levels of chaos. After some more delicious violence, and a transcendent slow burn in the form of "A Brighter Fire," "The Reckoning" finishes things off with an epic, catastrophic energy that is bookended with one of the album's most punishing breakdowns, bound to send some unlucky concertgoers to the dentist.

Legendary producer and Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou (NAILS, The Dillinger Escape Plan, Code Orange, and Every Time I Die) is behind the boards, capturing the band’s ferocious live  energy while maintaining a pristine presentation. Powerful, fierce, and stirring, WALLS OF JERICHO re-emerge with righteous purpose and brutal dedication, humanity may be the source  of the system error, but we are the system, and we are the solution.

WALLS OF JERICHO ARE:
Candace Buckingham — Vocals
Aaron Ruby — Bass
Dustin Robert — Drums
Bobby VaLeu — Guitar
Kyle Gailey — Guitar
Chris Towning — Guitar

BLACK SPIKES Release New Single, "DULKĖS" — Watch the Official Music Video

With mere days to go until the release of their sophomore album, Ydos, Lithuanian force BLACK SPIKES releases another single. "DULKĖS" — Lithuanian for "dust" — is Ydos' mystical album closer. Versatile, yet grasping, the five-piece breakout band solidifies its upward trajectory with this powerful track. Initially driven by slow modern drum sounds and singer Agni's captivating whispers, "DULKĖS" quickly explodes into a thrilling headbanging invitation.
 
Always keeping up the exceptional balance between sensitivity and heaviness, the song wraps up BLACK SPIKES' bleak exploration of humankind's relationship with its vices. Ydos is a creative twist on modern metal, a progressive sweeping blow reaching out with fierce claws, never to let you go.

The album releases this Friday.
 
BLACK SPIKES about "DULKĖS":
"The final song of Ydos, 'DULKĖS,' closes the whole fairytale by returning everything to dust. It is about the shortness of human life and what remains after we are gone. Our bodies disappear, the past fades, and the future belongs to others. But dust also carries the possibility of new life, reminding us that everything ends only to begin again."
 
Watch the Official Music Video for "DULKĖS" Below:

Emerging from the shadows are BLACK SPIKES, bringing the darkness right along with them on their new album, Ydos, out August 28. The Lithuanian breakout band's first release with Napalm Records, coming shortly after their nomination at their home country's Grammy-comparable M.A.M.A. Music Awards, deals with the eponymous flaws of humanity, conceptually interwoven with modern progressive metal, serving as a complex mirror for us all.

The depth of its concept is reflected in every note of Ydos, from every heavy riff to every proggy twist. Leaning into electronic music while holding on firmly to their metal roots, the Lithuanian band creates a distinctive sound, alluringly dark and captivatingly heavy. BLACK SPIKES venture into gloominess, filling the void with spine-tingling philosophical thoughts and posing as Janus-faced companions on a fateful journey into the self in which every step should be taken with caution because a trap just might snap...
 

BLACK SPIKES about Ydos:
"Ydos is a conceptual album — a dark fairytale about human vices. The idea was there from the very beginning and guided the entire songwriting process. Each vice has its own name and story, and many songs will be brought to life through music videos where these vices take shape. It was our first time creating a conceptual album, and we really enjoyed starting with an idea and expressing it through music."

Get Your Copy Of Ydos NOW!

Initiating the story of Ydos is the eerie "PASAKA" (engl. fairy tale), an intro setting the mood with menacing ticking sounds growing into orchestrals and singer Agni's high vocals layered with screams. A calming lullaby exploding into growls, thunderous blast beats, and elaborate guitar riffs, "MOTINA" (engl. mother) describes the birth of humankind's vices and therefore serves as an exposition for the storytelling aspect. Throughout the ten songs of their second album, BLACK SPIKES explore the relationships with flaws we all carry within, devoting a song to each of them. "MELAS" (engl. lie) introduces trap beats and rap to the mix, all with an approach clearly rooted in modern metal with sophisticated progressive elements. "MARA," investigating excessive curiosity, beautifully contrasts calmness and calamity, with the quintet allowing their different elements to breathe while still entwisting them persuasively. Following, "ZELVAR," which features the album's only English lyrics, and "REVANA" add endearing, highly recognizable riffs to Ydos, further opening the gates to the hauntingly beautiful realms BLACK SPIKES are unfolding as they delve into greed and revenge, respectively, the concepts personified in the form of demons. The raw rage evolves into carefully structured "APATIJA" (engl. apathy), whose futuristic intermezzi make for especially interesting headbanging rhythms throughout which Agni’s voice acts as a gentle guide. "AUREA" continues BLACK SPIKES' cinematic approach in its depiction of pride, unleashing a storm of rapacious riffs and galloping drums, frequently broken up by halcyon parts, their cleverly placed tranquility conveying comfort in seemingly hopeless hazes. With pressing "SENAS DEMONAS" (engl. old demon), BLACK SPIKES free yet another hellish entity, before "DULKĖS" (engl. dust) picks up on the melodized cinematography, wrapping up this bleak exploration of what it means to be human.

BLACK SPIKES ARE:
Agni — Vocals
Yaga — Guitar, Electronic elements
Mazvis — Guitar
Sime — Bass Guitar
Titas — Drums

LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE Share "Nevermore" Video

Dark metal band Lacrimas Profundere released their new single and video for the song "Nevermore" today. The song is also included on the upcoming studio album Lay Me Down O Silent Fear.

Watch the video below.

Guitar player Oliver Nikols Schmid says, "'Nevermore' was one of the last songs written for the album. Our singer Julian immediately loved the music, which in parts reminded him of Type O Negative. I, on the other hand, initially thought it was more of a B-side. Then he came up with this catchy vocal melody, almost reminiscent of my old heroes, Bon Jovi, but I was still unsure. We agreed to put the song through a few live tests — something we had never done before. Well, what can I say? Even though nobody had ever heard the song before, people immediately started singing along at the top of their lungs. And even after the song ended, the entire venue kept chanting 'NE-VER-MORE, NE-VER-MORE' for minutes. That was the moment I knew: This is it! In a way, this is our 'As I Die,' which originally wasn't even supposed to make it onto Paradise Lost's Shades of God album, but ultimately became their breakthrough. That's exactly what we're hoping for now."

Lay Me Down O Silent Fear will be released on September 25 through Steamhammer worldwide

LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE LIVE 2026:
8/9 — Siegenburg, Germany — Doiboch Open Air
8/21 — Hamburg, Germany — Logo
8/22 — Busdorf, Germany — Baltic Open Air
8/27 — Bad Wörishofen, Germany — Forest Metal Festival
8/28 — Oberhausen, Germany — Kulttempel
8/29 — Wolfenbüttel, Germany — KuBa Halle
9/3 — Berlin, Germany — Cassiopeia
9/4 — Buchholz, Germany — Bookwood Festival
9/25 — Weinheim, Germany — Cafe Central
9/26 — Magdeburg, Germany — Factory
9/30 — Munich, Germany — Backstage
10/2 — Vienna, Austria — Escape
10/23 — Zwickau, Germany — Club Seilerstrasse
10/24 — České Budějovice, Czech Republic — Club Lucerna
11/21 — Stuttgart, Germany — Im Wizemann (with Parasite Inc.)

The Barbarians of California Release Sophomore Album "Megatons" + Share "Earthquake" Video

The Barbarians Of California, featuring Aaron Bruno of AWOLNATION and Eric Stenman of Tinfed and a noted producer, remain equal opportunity iconoclasts with each new song and video they drop. They issue their slump-avoidant sophomore album MEGATONS . Get it here.

They also share the video for "EARTHQUAKE."

Watch the Barbarians get their "gym bro" on below.

"I feel like we are due for another massive earthquake," says Bruno, with his tongue planted firmly in cheek. "So, I wrote a song about it.. .assuming that California will break off into the ocean and Arizona would then be the new coastline."

Regarding the accompanying video, he says, "I wanted to put the band in a setting you'd never expect to find us in."

Gettin' those gains!

With MEGATONS, The Barbarians of California are unleashing fresh chaos straight from the sun-soaked, teeth-gnashing heart of the Golden State. Blending raw hardcore energy, riffs by the pound, and that signature mix of ferocity and tongue-in-cheek humor, these new songs hit like a caffeine-fueled fever dream. Through and through, the band delivers unapologetic anthems that feel both brutally fun yet dangerously addictive.

"Everyone has heard of the sophomore slump," states Stenman. "Making a second album can be a fraught process full of overthinking and self-doubt. Perhaps, the benefit of us starting this band, at this later point in our lives, relieves some of that pressure. This felt so easy, and is a seamless continuation of whatever we started with the first batch of song — just bigger and better."

The Barbarians aren't slowing down — they're just getting louder, meaner, and more ridiculously entertaining.

TBOC have also confirmed their first set of headline tour dates, alongside shows with Guns N' Roses and festival apperances.

All upcoming and confirmed live shows are below.

THE BARBARIANS OF CALIFORNIA LIVE:
9/6 — Pryor, OK — Rocklahoma Festival^
9/8 — Nashville, TN — Exit In
9/9 — St. Louis, MO — Blueberry Hill Duck Room [LOW TIX]
9/11 — Omaha, NE — Waiting Room
9/12 — Ridgedale, MO — Thunder Ridge Nature Arena*
9/14 — Minneapolis, MN — 7th St. Entry [LOW TIX]
9/15 — Milwaukee, WI — Cactus Club [LOW TIX]
9/17 — Chicago, IL — Cobra Lounge [SOLD OUT]
9/18 — Cleveland, OH — The Foundry [LOW TIX]
9/19 — Louisville, KY — Louder Than Life Festival^
10/23 — Los Angeles, CA — Lodge Room
1/24 — Naples, FL — ShipRocked^
*With Guns N’ Roses
^Festivals

ABOUT THE BARBARIANS OF CALIFORNIA:
The West Coast's contribution to hardcore punk is undeniable. That tradition of aggression, passion, and scrappy melodicism continues with The Barbarians of California, an engaging new manifestation of iconoclastic spirit and true bombast.  Born from the shared passion of Aaron Bruno (AWOLNATION) and his longtime engineer Eric Stenman — who cut his teeth in the same Sacramento community that eventually launched diverse and disparate acts like Deftones, Far, Will Haven, Team Sleep, Hella, Dance Gavin Dance, Death Grips, and Trash Talk — the spirit of the underground and the personal catharsis delivered through metallic hardcore never left either of them. So, when Aaron learned that Eric crafted a batch of throwback bangers combining impassioned angst with modern sensibilities, he wanted in immediately. The Barbarians of California was born.

In 2024, the band released their debut album, And Now I'm Just Gnashing My Teeth, and celebrated with a high-energy show at the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles, cementing their place in the hardcore scene’s next chapter. Since then, they've continued to build momentum with headline shows across LA, a summer 2025 arena tour with Deftones and other festival appearances that brought their explosive live presence to a wider audience. The Barbarians Of California are gearing up in 2026 for the release of their sophomore album MEGATONS.

Night Laser Share "Defenders" Video

Hamburg's No. 1 Sleaze rockers Night Laser released a new single and video. The song "Defenders" (Feat. Sebastian Zierof)" is also included on their upcoming studio album Rats In The Cradle. 

The band says, "Face first in the rain! Prepare for the final stand. With this epic anthem we are standing strong together, come whatever may. Sebastian Zierof on guest vocals is right there with us in the front line!"
 

Watch the video below.

Rats In The Cradle will be released on September 25 through Steamhammer worldwide in the following configurations:

Pre-order it here.

NIGHT LASER ON TOUR:
8/22 — Handeloh, DE — Wini Macken Open Air
8/29 — Brockhöfe, DE — Farmfest Open Air
9/19 — Hamburg, DE — Markthalle (with Hardbone)

SPECIAL GUEST FOR AXEL RUDI PELL:
9/23 — Pratteln, CH — Z7
9/25 — Cologne, DE — Live Music Hall
9/26 — Osnabrück, DE — Hydepark
9/27 — Bochum, DE — Zeche
9/29 — Ulm, DE — Roxy
9/30 — Mannheim, DE — Capitol
10/2 — Gelnhausen, DE — Warehouse Seven
10/3 — Stuttgart, DE — Longhorn
10/4 — Regensburg, DE — Eventhall
10/6 — Vienna, AT — Szene
10/7 — Nürnberg, DE — Hirsch
10/8 — Kortrijk, BE — De Kreun
10/9 — Heerlen, NL — Nieuwe Nor
10/10 — Zoetermeer, NL — Boerderij

HEADLINE SHOW:
12/11 — Oberhausen, DE — Helvete

2027:
1/16 — Braunschweig, DE — KuFa Haus
1/23 — Hameln, DE — Regenbogen
2/6 — Hamburg, DE — Bahnhof Pauli
5/8 — Lübeck, DE — Rider's Cafe

NIGHT LASER ARE:
Ingemar Oswald — Drums
Benno Hankers — Vocals
Rob Hankers — Bass
Felipe Zapata Martinez — Guitars

SCARHAVEN Share "Clouds" Video

SCARHAVEN — a four-piece grunge revival band originally from Washington, DC but who now call NYC home — just dropped the video for new single "CLOUDS."

"'Clouds' is about a relationship that's dying and how one person is being taken advantage of while the other just disrespects their dreams and goals to better themselves. It's about a dying love and how smoking blurs the lines of what’s real and what isn't," the band says.

 "Clouds" is soaked in betrayal, resentment, and toxic intimacy. Built on a thick, down-tuned, sweat-drenched riff that grinds and churns with raw emotion, the song boils over repeated cries of endurance ("I kept on") and bitter confrontation ("How low"), capturing the ugly cycle of lies, getting high to cope, and one-sided sacrifice. 

With its sludgy grooves, anguished vocals, and claustrophobic atmosphere, it feels like a darker, more personal take on '90s grunge — equal parts Alice in Chains sludge and Soundgarden menace. A raw anthem for anyone who’s carried a dying relationship far longer than they should have.

Live, they're chaos — fury smashing into fragile quiet. Scarhaven — frontman Michael Saint, bassist Jared Edson, guitarist Matt Kilroy, and drummer Shap Shapira — are a middle finger to the polish and pretense of the modern era.

It's the sound of a kid who once hid away in movie theaters, now bleeding through a mic, proving music can drag you out when you're too lost to save yourself.

Bayside Share "Don't Come Easy" B-Side + Announce "Bark at the Moon" EP

Since their 2000 formations, Queens punk rock icons BAYSIDE — Anthony Raneri (vocals, guitar), Jack O'Shea (guitar, vocals), Nick Ghanbarian (bass, vocals), and Chris Guglielmo (drums) — have been the purveyors of heartbreak that you can sing along and sink your teeth into. The Queens' 4-piece consistently craft perfect blends of gritty punk energy and razor-sharp pop hooks, giving the alternative world emotionally raw storytelling wrapped up in punchy catchiness that mirrors the chaotic world we live in.

This summer, the band has been issuing EPs curated and selected by a specific band member, complete with artwork designed by said member. Each collection also features a B-side from 2011's Killing Time that has never been digitally released and was only available via vinyl.

It's time for another Bayside B-side!

Killing Time B-side is "Don't Come Easy," and it appears on the Bark At the Moon collection, assembled by Ghanbarian. Watch the visualizer below.

"Don't Come Easy" paints a vivid and candid portrait of a real American boy trying to figure out who he is and where he fits into this great big world. With its slice of life Americana lyrics, paired with post-hardcore and punk rock's oh-so-familiar three chords and the distinct talk-sing vocal style of Raneri, "Don't Come Easy" is a little bit Gaslight Anthem, a little bit Bruce Springsteen, and even a little bit Taylor Swift in how specific details and information about this American boy becoming a man are so immediate — you'll feel like you know him. It's all wrapped up in a post-hardcore package that only Bayside can deliver.

"'Don't Come Easy’ is the first song we wrote from the Killing Time sessions," Ghanbarian recalls. "I remember being really happy with it and thinking it was going to be a lead single, but after writing more songs for Killing Time, it shaped up to be a bit different. The album ended up having more fast and aggressive songs so the blue collar storyline of 'Don't Come Easy' didn't fit in with the rest of the album by then. It was a tough decision, but we knew it would be released eventually — and here we are!"

Bayside kicked off the B-side and EP series with Anywhere But Here, curated by Guglielmo and featuring "Monster." Watch the visualizer here. They followed with Proxima Centauri B, assembled by Raneri and featuring "Battle Scars." Watch the visualizer here. 

The band recently announced its Fall 2026 tour plans. They will hit the road on a headline run that kicks off September 15 in Fort Collins, Colorado and runs through October 10 in Louisville, Kentucky. Driveways and Grave Secrets will serve as support. Bayside will also appear at several festivals, including Warped Tour, Riot Fest, and more. All dates are below. Tickets and VIP packages are on sale now at this location.
 
BAYSIDE ON TOUR:
WITH DRIVEWAYS + GRAVE SECRETS:
9/15—Fort Collins, CO—Washington's
9/16—Omaha, NE—The Waiting Room
9/18—Chicago, IL—Riot Fest*

9/19 — Chicago, IL — Concord Music Hall**

9/20—Grand Rapids, MI—Elevation
9/22—Rochester, NY—Anthology
9/23—Providence, RI— Fete Ballroom
9/25—Pittsburgh, PA—Four Chord Music Festival*
9/26—Richmond, VA—The Canal Club+
9/27—New Haven, CT—Toad's Place
9/29—Asheville, NC—The Orange Peel
9/30—Charleston, SC—Charleston Music Hall
10/2—New Orleans, LA—House of Blues New Orleans
10/3— Birmingham, AL—Workplay Soundstage
10/4— Fayetteville, AR—George's Majestic Lounge
10/6—San Antonio, TX— Rock Box
10/8—Lawrence, KS— Liberty Hall
10/9—Indianapolis, IN— Hi-Fi Annex
10/10—Louisville, KY— Mercury Ballroom
*Festival
+No Driveways
**Riot Fest After Show with Motion City Soundtrack

Miss May I Share "Death Threat" Video — WATCH // Band Touring This Fall

MISS MAY I — Levi Benton [vocals], Jerod Boyd [drums], Ryan Neff [bass], and Elisha Mullins [guitar ] — will unleash their new album NO PLACE FOR ME on October 2 via Solid State Records. Pre-order it here.

The band delivers the video for "DEATH THREAT." Watch it below.

 The video is also completely DIY endeavor for the band. The concept was conceived by Benton and produced and directed by William Story and the video was shot at the band's own properties and with whatever they could get their hands on!

The song confronts a harsh but necessary reality so many are unwilling to face in order to grow and learn. And it does so with with groove-centric, anthemic energy.

"'Death Threat' is about being held in an emotional chokehold while someone uses your own flaws against you," declares Benton. "Our darker habits deserve to be seen and worked through, not weaponized. The song walks through that worst-case scenario — someone turning your darkness on you — before landing on clarity; finally hearing what needs to be heard and doing what needs to be done."

Regarding the album, the singer reveals it was a truly cathartic process to write and record it, saying, "No Place For Me is everything I've felt for a long time but never had the words for. Writing it taught me who I actually am even when that hurt to look at. It's a full journey: Where it started, what I discovered, and where I am today." These are the tentpole concepts of the album and are why fans are going to connect with it on a level so deep, it touches marrow.

Miss May I have also announced their Fall 2026 tour plans. They will hit the road on the The Perpetual Iron tour, which is a co-headline trek with Born of Osiris. Convictions and Downswing will also appear. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

MISS MAY I ON TOUR:
WITH BORN OF OSIRIS, CONVICTIONS, + DOWNSWING:
11/06 — Pontiac, MI — The Crofoot
11/07 — Pittsburgh, PA — Preserving
11/08 — Asbury Park, NJ — House of Independents
11/10 — Norwalk, CT — District Music Hall
11/11 — Reading, PA — Reverb
11/13 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819
11/15 — Nashville, TN — Eastside Bowl
11/16 — Greenville, SC — The Radio Room
11/18 — Charlotte, NC — The Underground
11/19 — Charleston, SC — Music Farm
11/20 — Tampa, FL — Orpheum
11/21 — West Palm Beach, FL — The Banyan Live
11/22 — Jacksonville, FL — The Albatross
11/24 — Destin, FL — Club LA
11/25 — New Orleans, LA — House of Blues
11/27 — Houston, TX — Warehouse Live Midtown
11/28 — Austin, TX — Come and Take It Live
11/29 — Deep Ellum, TX — Puzzles
11/30 — Odessa, TX — Ector Theater
12/02 — Albuquerque, NM — Sunshine Theater
12/03 — Mesa, AZ — Nile Theater
12/04 — Pomona, CA — The Glass House
12/05 — Fresno, CA — Fulton 55
12/06 — Roseville, CA — Goldfield Trading Post
12/08 — Portland, OR — Hawthorne Theater
12/09 — Seattle, WA — The Crocodile
12/11 — Boise, ID — Shrine Social Club
12/12 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Metro Music Hall
12/13 — Denver, CO — Summit
12/15 — Columbia, MO — The Blue Note
12/17 — Minneapolis, MN — Cabooze
12/18 — West Chicago, IL — WC Social Club
12/19 — Dayton, OH — Relentless Fest

Instead of letting doubts, anxiety, negativity, and intrusive thoughts run wild, Miss May I will catch and turn even the most volatile feelings into airtight anthems. The Ohio-bred quartet ground extreme emotions in a taut framework of technically adroit riffing, hardcore grooves, and unforgettable melodies. The band has expertly honed an uncanny ability to make sense of life on tape. That's why fans worldwide have leaned on the group's music since their emergence in 2007. Following years of grinding, 2012's At Heart marked a breakthrough moment for the group when it bowed at #32 on the Billboard 200. Their impact only expanded with Deathless [2015] and Shadows Inside [2017], which both debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top Independent Albums Chart and Top Rock Albums Chart. In 2022, Curse Of Existence received widespread critical acclaim from the likes of Alternative Presswho raved: "Miss May I have penned one of their strongest records yet." V13 hailed it as "packed full of emotion and heartfelt rage," and Outburn marveled at "their fast, aggressive, thrashy metalcore mixed with powerful lyrics." Along the way, they generated hundreds of millions of streams and toured with everyone from Killswitch Engage and Parkway Drive to Motionless In White. In 2026, the collective continue to strike a deep chord with their eighth full-length offering and Solid State debut LP, No Place For Me.